Wednesday at Indoor Arena, Lugogo
KIU Rangers v JKL Lady Dolphins – 7pm
JKL Dolphins v KIU Titans – 9pm
A revitalised KIU Rangers side will be on a mission to turn the tables when they meet the red-hot JKL Lady Dolphins in a pivotal National Basketball League clash on Wednesday at Lugogo Indoor Arena.
JKL cruised to a dominant 63-43 victory in the first-round encounter, leaving many surprised by the one-sided affair that was expected to be a much tighter contest. That game exposed the Rangers’ offensive struggles, with only Ines Kanyamunza hitting double figures (22 points), while their bench contributed a mere two points. The Lady Dolphins also asserted their physical dominance, out-rebounding KIU by a commanding 62-44 margin.
This time, however, the Rangers come into the rematch with a bolstered lineup. Key players Fildauce Namuleme, Florence Nanyonga, Rachael Nanyonga, and Stella Nanfuka are back in the fold after missing the first encounter due to netball obligations. Their presence significantly strengthens KIU’s rotation, both offensively and defensively.
The Rangers, now with a 10-7 record, are looking to build on their latest result a gritty 56-45 win over the Angels. That win followed a humbling 85-54 defeat to title-chasing JT Lady Jaguars. Against Angels, Sharon Kirabo was the standout performer, scoring 26 points as KIU overcame a nervy fourth quarter where they were outscored 19-4.
JKL, on the other hand, have shaken off their mid-season stumble against UCU Lady Canons and are currently riding a four-game win streak. Even without seasoned stars Flavia Oketcho, Ritah Imanishimwe, and Becky Longom, the Lady Dolphins continue to show their depth and quality.
Their most recent display a commanding 91-65 win over UPDF Lady Tomahawks saw them rotate just eight players, yet still deliver a clinical performance. Rising talent Shamirah Nakiyaga stole the spotlight with a 19-point contribution off the bench, highlighting JKL’s ability to get production from every corner of their roster.
As the Lady Dolphins aim to complete a season sweep and tighten their grip on the top playoff spots, the Rangers will be hoping that their strengthened squad can flip the script and inject new life into their postseason campaign. All signs point to a fierce, high-stakes battle at Lugogo.
